Stress, cold and dry winter weather, and some hair care products may make dandruff
worse.

Dandruff isn't contagious. You can't catch it from or give it to another person.

Who Gets Dandruff?

Almost anyone can have dandruff. Many teens and adults live with it. Hormone levels
are high during teen years, which causes more oil production. This may be why dandruff
usually begins around puberty. People with immune system problems (like HIV) or neurologic problems
(like Parkinson's disease) are more likely to have dandruff.

How Is Dandruff Diagnosed?

Health care providers can diagnose dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis based on
symptoms (like an itchy scalp and flakes on the shoulders) and an exam.

How Is Dandruff Treated?

In most cases, over-the-counter dandruff shampoo can control a person's dandruff.
Check the labels for these common "active ingredients":

tar-based shampoo (such as T-Gel®, DHS tar®, Pentrax®, or a store
brand). Tar-based shampoos can make the scalp more sensitive to sunlight, so users
should wear a hat outside. Don't use a tar shampoo on dyed or treated hair. Long-term
use can stain skin, hair, and nails.

ketoconazole shampoo (such as Nizoral 1%® or a store brand)

Follow the label directions on how much to use and how often. When your dandruff
improves, it's OK to use dandruff shampoo less often. Once a week might be enough
to keep flakes off your shoulders.

If dandruff doesn't get better after 4–6 weeks, try another shampoo with
a different active ingredient.

Talk to the pharmacist if you have any questions about dandruff shampoos.

When Should I Call the Doctor?

Call your health care provider if:

Your dandruff doesn't go away with dandruff shampoo.

Dandruff or itching gets worse.

Your scalp gets red or swollen.

You have red and flaky skin in areas other than your scalp.

The doctor may prescribe prescription-strength shampoos or topical steroids for
itching and redness.

What Else Should I Know?

People with dandruff also may get seborrheic dermatitis on other parts of their
body, including: